8 Best Places to Visit in Romania for an Unforgettable Trip
8 Best Places to Visit in Romania for an Unforgettable Trip
Located in Eastern Europe, Romania is a country of striking contrasts, where dense forests and wild rivers meet medieval towns, and iconic ancient castles rise above sun-dappled vineyards and the vast waterways of the Danube Delta.
While Bran Castle and the capital, Bucharest, are often the first stops for explorers, the country has much more to offer those who seek experiences off the usual path. From the intricate frescoes of Bucovina’s monasteries to the serene channels of the Danube, Romania rewards travellers who appreciate history, culture, and landscapes that feel both authentic and undiscovered.
Andrea, our Head of Regent, has journeyed through Romania’s most captivating corners and is ready to share her first-hand insights to help you discover the best places to visit in Romania, from hidden villages to mesmerising landscapes and historic landmarks.
1. Danube Delta
A UNESCO natural wonder
Danube River
Tucked away in Romania’s far east, where the Danube River fans out into the Black Sea, the Danube Delta is a maze of shimmering waterways, reed-fringed lakes, and hidden lagoons – Europe’s second-largest river delta and one of its last great wildernesses.
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this 2,200-square-mile expanse is best explored by boat in the early morning light, when mist rises from the water and the calls of herons and egrets echo across the channels. Home to over 300 species of birds – including pelicans, eagles, and cormorants – it’s a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers and photographers alike. Spring and summer are the best times to visit, when migratory birds return and the wetlands come alive.
Sunrise on the Danube River
Base yourself in Mahmudia, a peaceful village perched on one of the Danube’s tributaries. Here, the Hotel Mon Jardin offers tranquil river views, excellent local fish dishes, and easy access to private boat trips through the delta’s labyrinthine waterways. For something more luxurious, the Razelm Luxury Resort features elegant bungalows with hot tubs overlooking the channels – perfect for relaxing after a day on the water.
Pair your adventure with a local wine tasting in the Dobrogea region, known for its 300 days of sunshine and crisp Aligoté whites. Whether gliding past nesting pelicans or sipping wine as the sun sets over the reeds, the Danube Delta offers one of the most serene and surprising experiences in Romania.
2. Constanța
Beautiful city of Black Sea coast heritage
Constanța
Romania’s oldest continuously inhabited city, Constanța is a fascinating fusion of seaside character and rustic grandeur. Overlooking the Black Sea, this historic port has seen Greek, Roman, and Ottoman influences ebb and flow through its streets for over two millennia. The standout landmark is the striking Casino Constanța, a crumbling Art Nouveau masterpiece perched dramatically above the waves.
Once a glamorous symbol of the city’s belle époque era, it’s now being lovingly restored to its former elegance. Nearby, Ovid Square – named after the exiled Roman poet – offers a glimpse into the city’s ancient past, as do the Roman mosaics preserved in the Museum of National History and Archaeology.
Constanța
Constanța’s architectural landscape is a visual collage – socialist-era apartment blocks sit alongside ornate churches, a mosque and even a synagogue, reflecting the city’s rich multicultural heritage. Though much of its splendour feels timeworn, this very contrast gives Constanța its character. A three-hour walking tour easily captures its highlights, from the seafront promenade to the lively old town cafés. For travellers exploring the Dobrogea region, Constanța offers an intriguing cultural interlude between the vineyards and the tranquil waters of the Danube Delta.
3. Bucharest
Romania’s vibrant, cultural capital city
Bucharest
Often underestimated, Bucharest surprises you with its energetic mix of history, culture, and contemporary flair. Hotel CH Bucharest, tucked into the city’s Jewish Quarter, makes a perfect base: large, comfortable rooms, a good buffet breakfast, and an inviting restaurant set the tone for exploring the neighbourhood’s bars, cafés, art galleries and boutique shops. A short stroll brings you to the Palace of Parliament, one of the world’s largest buildings, where guided walks offer a glimpse into Romania’s complex political history and the scale of Ceausescu’s ambitions.
Bucharest coffee shop
Beyond the monumental architecture, Bucharest is cultivating a vibrant food and wine scene. From trendy bistros to traditional Romanian taverns, the city is embracing both local and international culinary influences. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy tastings in welcoming cellar-style venues, discovering native varieties such as Fetească Neagră and Aligoté. Whether wandering the historic streets, admiring eclectic architecture, or sampling Romania’s finest wines, Bucharest offers a dynamic introduction to the country’s rich culture and evolving urban energy.
4. Curtea de Argeș
An authentic village home to a monastery & legends
Curtea de Argeș Monastery
Nestled in the foothills of southern Romania, Curtea de Argeș is a town steeped in history and legend. The highlight is the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a masterpiece of Romanian ecclesiastical architecture famous for the tragic Meșterul Manole legend, where the master builder was said to have sacrificed his wife to complete the church.
Cathedral of Saint Nicholas
Nearby, the Cathedral of Saint Nicholas houses the tombs of Romanian royalty, including King Ferdinand and Queen Marie, offering you a glimpse into the country’s regal past. The town itself is picturesque, with a main street lined with cafés, terraces, and local shops, making it ideal for a short cultural stop.
5. Transfăgărășan Highway & Poenari Citadel
Adventure, history, and scenic landscapes
Transfăgărășan Highway
Winding through the Carpathian Mountains in Western Romania, the Transfăgărășan Highway is one of Romania’s most spectacular drives, offering captivating views of rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and deep valleys.
Along the route, the Vidraru Dam impresses with its sheer scale and engineering, a reminder of Romania’s ambitious projects during the Ceausescu era. The road itself is best enjoyed in spring and summer, when snow has melted and wildlife such as bears and eagles can occasionally be spotted in the surrounding forests.
Poenari Citadel
A stop at Poenari Citadel adds a touch of legend to the journey. This fortress, linked to Vlad the Impaler, offers a dramatic glimpse into Romania’s medieval past and provides a striking contrast to the natural beauty of the mountains. While access to the citadel can sometimes be restricted, the views from the surrounding area are spectacular, making it worthwhile to include in a day trip along this iconic route.
6. Dealu Mare
Romania’s premier wine region
Dealu Mare
Just a short drive from Bucharest, Dealu Mare is Romania’s most celebrated wine region, known for its rolling hills, sun-soaked vineyards, and boutique wineries producing both traditional and innovative vintages.
Be sure to explore Crama De Piatra, a beautifully restored manor house offering personal tastings of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Fetească Neagră; Apogeum Manor, where wines are crafted in ancient ceramic amphorae and the gardens reflect a regal past; and Davino, a modern estate with panoramic vineyard views and expertly curated red and white fusions. Each winery offers a unique experience, from private tastings to guided tours of the vineyards and cellars.
Dealu Mare
Dealu Mare is perfect for day trips from Bucharest, allowing travellers to immerse themselves in Romania’s viticultural heritage without venturing far. Accommodation options range from idyllic vineyard guesthouses to boutique hotels such as Crama Vinalia, set among the vines with terraces and pools, ideal for relaxing after a day of wine tasting. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious traveller, Dealu Mare offers a refined, authentic taste of Romania’s wine culture.
- Read more about Andrea's experience in the impressive wine regions of Romania in her blog: Romania Wine Regions: A Journey Through Dobrogea, Dealu Mare & Dragasani
7. Dragasani
Hidden gem for wine lovers
.JPG)
Dragășani
Tucked into the rolling hills of Oltenia, Dragășani is a lesser-known wine region where tradition and innovation meet. Vineyards overlook the winding Olt River, creating a striking backdrop for tasting sessions at estates like Crama Știrbey, where the family has tended the land for over 300 years; Crama Bauer, known for its experimental approach and panoramic guesthouse views; and Crama Avincis, which pairs modern architecture with extensive vineyards and bone-dry sparkling wines. Each winery offers a chance to discover authentic Romanian varietals such as Fetească Regală, Crâmpoșie Selecționată, and Negru de Dragășani.
Dragășani
The region also caters to travellers seeking luxurious wine experiences, with boutique accommodations and hotel options offering terraces, pools, and riverside views. Dragășani is ideal for those who want to explore Romania’s viticultural heritage off the beaten path, enjoying both the beauty of the countryside and the craftsmanship of its local winemakers.
8. Bran Castle
Romania’s Iconic Fortress
Bran Castle
Perched atop a rocky hill near Brașov, Bran Castle is perhaps Romania’s most famous fortress, instantly recognisable for its dramatic towers and winding staircases. While often linked to Bram Stoker’s fictional Dracula, the castle’s history reaches far beyond legend. It was originally built in the 14th century to defend Transylvania against invading forces and later served as a royal residence.
%2C%20bran%2C%20prahova%20valley%2C%20saxon%20land%2C%20transylvania%2C%20romania%2C%20europe_2428388983.jpg){kind=spacer}
Bran Castle
You'll be drawn both by its striking Gothic architecture and the eerie tales of Vlad the Impaler, Romania’s real-life “Dracula,” who is said to have inspired the vampire lore. Inside, winding corridors, secret passages, and period furnishings give a vivid glimpse of medieval life, while the surrounding Carpathian landscape provides a scenic backdrop. A visit to Bran Castle is both a step into history and a brush with the myth that has captivated imaginations worldwide, making it an essential stop on any Transylvania itinerary.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Holiday to Romania with Our Experts
Discover Romania your way with our Travel Specialists who go beyond the norm to craft extraordinary journeys. Drawing on first-hand experience, we craft bespoke itineraries that uncover the country’s most intriguing corners – from medieval citadels and storybook villages to wild landscapes and world-class wine regions.
Keep reading to see some of our favourite Romanian adventures for you.
Painted Monasteries & Wooden Churches of Romania
Merry Cemetery
Journey through Romania’s lesser-explored heartlands on this captivating seven-day tour of Moldavia, Bucovina and Maramureș, regions where faith, folklore, and artistry intertwine. Begin in Iași, a city of grand architecture and cultural grace, before travelling north to the UNESCO-listed painted monasteries of Bucovina, their vivid frescoes radiating centuries of devotion.
Continue to Maramureș, where towering wooden churches and the colourful, story-filled headstones of the Merry Cemetery reveal a community deeply rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. End in the vibrant university city of Cluj-Napoca, where history meets modern creativity – a fitting finale to a journey celebrating Romania’s most authentic spiritual and artistic treasures.
Romania Fly-Drive Holiday
Corvin castle, Hunedoara town, Transylvania
Embark on a self-drive journey through Romania’s storybook landscapes, where each winding road reveals a new chapter of history and beauty. This ten-day adventure connects the country’s most captivating regions – from Bucharest’s lively city centre and vibrant culture to the Gothic allure of Transylvania’s spectacular castles and the colourful houses and frescoes of Bucovina’s painted monasteries.
Along the way, explore medieval towns like Sibiu and Sighișoara, known for their medieval charm and cobbled streets, drive through the dramatic Bicaz Gorge, and pause at peaceful lakes and scenic surroundings in the Carpathian Mountains. Designed for independent travellers, this flexible itinerary blends discovery with freedom, offering the perfect balance of culture, legend, and natural splendour at your own pace.
The True Story of Vlad the Impaler
Bran Castle
Trace the life and legend of Romania’s most notorious ruler on this immersive seven-day journey through Transylvania, one of the best places to visit in Romania.
From Vlad the Impaler’s birthplace in the only inhabited medieval fortress of Sighişoara to his imposing strongholds at Bran Castle - often called Dracula's Castle - and Corvin Castle, uncover the rich history behind the Dracula myth while exploring medieval castles, fortified churches, royal monasteries, and gothic landmarks with a knowledgeable private guide.
Experience Transylvania at Castle Daniel
Bran Castle
Step into the heart of Transylvania, a land of preserved medieval towns, gothic fortresses, and the enduring legend of Count Dracula. Over six days, stay in the 17th-century Castle Daniel, where boutique rooms blend historic charm with modern comfort.
Explore Saxon fortified churches, wander cobblestone streets in Sighișoara, hike through the unspoiled Vargyas Gorge in search of bears and lynx, and uncover the secrets of Bran Castle. For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, journey to the Prince of Wales’ private guesthouse and witness the region’s extraordinary biodiversity firsthand. This tailor-made itinerary perfectly combines history, wildlife, and the magical atmosphere of Romania’s most beautiful places.
Plan Your Tailor-Made Romanian Adventure
Discover Romania your way with a bespoke itinerary designed around your interests, pace, and schedule. Whether you want to explore medieval castles, wander storybook villages, cruise the Danube Delta, or taste the country’s finest wines, Regent can craft a personalised journey to bring Romania’s best places to visit to life.
Did you enjoy this blog?
Here's some more you may like...
10 Great Places to Travel Solo